Blog
Battling Fear, Phobia, and Pet Anxiety With Patience and Understanding
Summer has a lot to offer pets and their families, but sadly the season is not free of threats to their health and wellness. Aside from the risks associated with high heat and humidity, pets have to contend with thunderstorms, fireworks, large-scale events, and backyard BBQs. Sure, some pets can remain calm, but others are at an increased risk of developing deeply-felt pet anxiety.
So Many Choices
Like us, pets feel emotions, and the ways in which they respond to certain stimuli can be unexpected. For example, some pet owners may underestimate the extent of their pet’s fear, stress, or anxiety – or not even realize they’re suffering at all. Pets are hardwired to hide signs of fear, but once pet anxiety takes root it can be difficult to overcome.
Continue…All Going Swimmingly: Swimming Safety for Dogs
We are excited to dive into summer – into lakes, rivers, and pools, that is. And, we know quite a few dogs who are just as excited as we are! Although we may think of them as natural swimmers, the truth is that not all dogs know how to swim.
Whether your dog already knows how to swim or you’re not sure if she’s a water dog, every dog can benefit from a few swimming lessons. So as we get closer to summer, Ten West Bird and Animal Hospital is focusing on swimming safety for dogs!
Continue…The Privileges and Protections of Service Animals and Their Handlers
Animals have certainly earned their place as some of our most trusted confidants and allies, but many dogs provide their human companions with much, much more. In fact, service animals (typically dogs) are equipped with life-saving skills to help their handlers. These highly-trained animals are simply amazing at their jobs!
Groundbreaking Legislation
In 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law. As a result, state and local agencies, businesses, and nonprofit organizations were required to make reasonable modifications to accommodate – and even benefit – people with disabilities. Even establishments with strict “no pet” policies were no longer able to ban service animals. However, the ADA prohibits people from asking for proof of training or certification. Continue…